Searching for a new rental home in British Columbia can be stressful, especially when landlords request sensitive information during tenant screening. Illegal rental screening can restrict your access to housing and may violate your rights under BC law. This guide explains what is and is not allowed during the tenant application process, so you can protect yourself and your privacy in the housing market.

What Is Rental Screening?

Rental screening is the process where a landlord reviews applications and background information to help select a tenant. While most screening practices are legal, BC law sets strict limits to prevent discrimination and protect your privacy. The rules are designed to ensure that all tenants have a fair shot at renting homes—regardless of their background, family status, disability, or other protected characteristics.

What Information Can Landlords Request?

Under the Residential Tenancy Act¹ and the BC Human Rights Code², landlords may ask for information reasonably required to determine if a tenant will be financially responsible and take care of the unit. Legally permitted requests include:

• Full name, current address, and contact information
• References from previous landlords or employers
• Proof of income, such as pay stubs or bank statements
• Credit checks—with your written consent

Landlords in BC may also require a security deposit, but only after accepting your application. To learn about deposit rules, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Is Illegal in Rental Screening?

BC landlords cannot ask for or use information that may result in discrimination based on protected grounds under the Human Rights Code. Examples of illegal screening practices include:

• Requesting your social insurance number (SIN)
• Asking about your age, marital or family status, religion, race, ancestry, nationality, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability
• Questions about your plans to have children
• Requiring a photo with your rental application
• Denying your application based on protected characteristics

If you experience or suspect discrimination, you have the right to file a human rights complaint. For an overview of your broader tenancy rights in BC, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

What Should Tenants Do If Asked for Illegal Information?

If a landlord asks for information that seems invasive or unrelated to your suitability as a tenant, you can politely decline to provide it. Point out that the BC Human Rights Code protects you against discrimination. If you feel pressured or are denied housing because you refuse to share illegal information, record the details in writing—including dates, names, and exact questions.

Official Forms and How to File a Complaint

If you've experienced discrimination or illegal rental screening, here’s how you can act:

• BC Human Rights Tribunal - Complaint Form: Use the BC Human Rights Complaint Form to file a discrimination complaint. This form covers all protected areas, including tenancy. Submit online or download and send by mail or fax.
• How to use: Clearly describe the illegal questions asked or the basis for the discrimination (e.g., denied because of your family status). Attach any evidence, such as emails or notes from phone calls.

All tenancy disputes, like wrongful refusals to rent, are overseen by the BC Residential Tenancy Branch. For human rights, the BC Human Rights Tribunal will review your complaint.³

Step-By-Step: Filing a Human Rights Complaint

• Download and complete the BC Human Rights Complaint Form
• Attach evidence (emails, texts, or a written statement)
• Submit it by email, mail, or fax to the BC Human Rights Tribunal
• The Tribunal will review your case and follow up for further information or mediation

If your complaint is about tenancy rights (but not human rights), you can file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Branch instead.

Your Rights after Signing a Lease

Even after you've secured housing, landlords must continue to respect your rights. Problems like sudden requests for new information or harassment are common issues. To learn more about your rights after moving in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

You can also Browse apartments for rent in Canada using reputable and transparent online platforms.

FAQ: BC Illegal Rental Screening

1. Can a landlord in BC ask for my credit report?
   Yes, landlords can request a credit check, but they must obtain your written consent first.
2. Is it legal for a landlord to request my SIN?
   No, your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is not required for tenancy and you have the right to refuse this request.
3. If I believe a landlord discriminated against me, what should I do?
   You can file a complaint with the BC Human Rights Tribunal using their official online complaint process. Document all relevant details before filing.
4. What if I already provided illegal information?
   You can still file a human rights complaint if you feel you were discriminated against, even if you initially shared information under pressure.
5. Are all rental deposits in BC required by law?
   Landlords may request a deposit, but the rules on amounts and collection are regulated. Learn more at Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords in BC can only collect information required to judge your suitability as a tenant, not personal or protected details.
• Discrimination during rental screening is against the law. Use official forms to challenge unfair screening.
• Your rights remain protected throughout your tenancy under the Residential Tenancy Act.

Understanding your rights helps you secure fair access to housing and take action if illegal screening happens. For a summary of BC landlord and tenant duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• BC Residential Tenancy Branch – Tenants Info
• BC Human Rights Tribunal
• Residential Tenancy Branch Dispute Resolution Application
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC)

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1. Residential Tenancy Act, view official text here
2. BC Human Rights Code, see legislation
3. BC Human Rights Tribunal and BC Residential Tenancy Branch

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